Neymar Unlikely to Play in 2026 World Cup Amid Fitness Concerns

Brazilian football star Neymar is facing challenges in his pursuit to participate in the 2026 World Cup due to recurring injuries and concerns about his physical fitness, as noted by coach Carlo Ancelotti who excluded him from Brazil's squad for upcoming friendlies. Despite limited playtime owing to a recent hamstring injury, Neymar has made a notable return to Santos, impressing fans with his skillful plays and a viral free-kick maneuver, though his team remains close to the relegation zone in the Brazilian league. Off the field, Neymar is expanding his business ventures by launching a large sports and leisure complex in Brazil, emphasizing his continued influence beyond football. Meanwhile, former Portuguese international Nani highlights Portugal, Spain, and the U.S. as strong contenders for the 2026 World Cup, praising the potential impact of home advantage and coaching on the U.S. team's performance, and suggesting that a World Cup win would be a perfect career finale for Cristiano Ronaldo. Nani also envisions Neymar as a perfect fit for Inter Miami in MLS, pointing to the club's entertainment value and enthusiastic fanbase. Collectively, these perspectives paint a picture of Neymar at a crossroads in his career, balancing recovery and business pursuits, while the global football community anticipates the upcoming World Cup with several teams poised to make significant impacts.